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D2569-97 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📐 Apparatus and Setup
The distillation apparatus consists of a side-arm flask with precise dimensions, a tapered condenser tube, an electric heater with variable transformer, and a stainless steel shield. The flask must meet the following specifications:
| 🟦 Parameter | 📐 Specification (mm) |
|---|---|
| Diameter of bulb, outside | 86.0 ± 1.5 |
| Diameter of neck, inside | 22.0 ± 1.0 |
| Diameter of tubulature, inside | 10.0 ± 0.5 |
| Height of flask, outside | 131.0 ± 1.5 |
| Vertical distance to tubulature | 93.0 ± 1.5 |
| Length of tubulature | 220 ± 5 |
| Angle of tubulature (°) | 1.0 to 1.5 |
| Thickness of tubulature wall | 75 ± 2 |
The heater is a 750-W unit with variable transformer control, and the shield is lined with high-temperature cloth.
⚙️ Test Procedure and Significance
A 100-g sample is distilled at a designated rate using the electrically heated flask. The condenser tube has the following dimensions:
| 🟦 Component | 📐 Dimension (mm) |
|---|---|
| Outside diameter, small end | 12.5 ± 1.5 |
| Outside diameter, large end | 28.5 ± 3.0 |
| Length | 360 ± 4 |
| Length of tapered part | 100 ± 5 |
The weight of distillate fractions at specified temperatures and the time to collect the main fraction are recorded. In practice, most oils below 360°C are removed in producing high-softening-point pitches. Excessive distillation in this range may cause fuming and instability.
⚠️ Warning: The standard requires non-asbestos materials. The word “asbestos” was replaced editorially in August 2005.
💡 Tip: Ensure transformer settings are reproducible within 2% on the percent input dial for accurate results.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the scope of this test?
This test method is applicable for pitch when the distillate below 270°C is less than 2.0% by this method.
💡 What are the key apparatus requirements?
A side-arm flask, tapered condenser, 750-W heater with variable transformer, and a shield with non-asbestos lining.
⚡ What measurements are taken?
The weight of distillate fractions at specified temperatures and the time required for the main fraction are recorded.
📌 What safety considerations are noted?
Users must establish appropriate safety and health practices and comply with regulatory limitations.